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Karbalaei, Z. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rutten, T. ,
Blattner, F.R. Botanical Studies (1817406X) 66(1)
Background: The genus Astragalus is the largest and one of the most diverse genera of flowering plants, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, with a significant concentration of species in the Irano-Turanian region. Within this genus, section Hymenostegis is notable for its complexity and high levels of endemism, especially in northwestern Iran. During recent field explorations in West Azarbaijan province, a distinct population of Astragalus was identified, differing from known species within section Hymenostegis. This study aimes to describe and analyze this new species and clarify its relationship with closely related taxa using an integrative approach. Results: Astragalus kuzehrashensis sp. nov. is described following detailed morphological comparisons with its closest relatives, A. chehreganii and A. hakkianus. The new species is distinguished by unique stipule characteristics, leaflet shape, inflorescence structure, and seed micromorphology. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using ITS and ycf1 sequences reveals that A. kuzehrashensis forms a clade with A. chehreganii and A. hakkianus, although it exhibits genetic differences. Genome size estimation confirms that A. kuzehrashensis is hexaploid (2n = 6x = 48), aligning it more closely with A. hakkianus than with the tetraploid A. chehreganii. The distinct morphological characters and genomic data support recognizing A. kuzehrashensis as a new species within section Hymenostegis. Conclusions: The identification of A. kuzehrashensis underscores the importance of an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological, molecular, and cytogenetic data to resolve species boundaries within complex groups like Astragalus section Hymenostegis. This study highlights the rich biodiversity of the Irano-Turanian floristic region, emphasizing the need for ongoing exploration and conservation efforts, particularly in areas of high endemism. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the taxonomy and evolutionary relationships within the genus Astragalus. © The Author(s) 2024.
Akbari, F. ,
Hosseinimehr, S.J. ,
Noruz, M. ,
Ebrahimi, F. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Vahedi, L. ,
Azadbakht, M. Iranian Journal Of Medical Sciences (17353688) 50(6)pp. 404-415
Background: Investigations have shown that estrogen affects wound healing through skin receptors. Astragalus floccosus Boiss. contains estrogen-like isoflavonoids. This study examined the effects of A. floccosus Boiss (A. floccosus) extract on wound healing in vitro and in vivo. Methods: For the in vitro test, Human Fetal Foreskin Fibroblast 2 (HFFF2) cells treated with the root extract of A. floccosus were followed over a 48-hour period. For the in vivo test, rats were categorized into five groups and received daily applications of a cream containing different concentrations of the extract: 5%, 10%, silver sulfadiazine, the ointment base, and no treatment for a duration of 21 days. The wound size and full-thickness wound healing were measured throughout the inspection, and a histological study was conducted as well. The two-way repeated measures ANOVA test was employed, with a significance level of 0.05 (P≤0.05) being used in all cases. Results: A. floccosus at 125 ppm significantly improved the closer region and wound healing in HFFF2 cells over all periods of time and showed a significant healing effect during 8-12 h (P=0.0234). Moreover, an increase in fibrosis (compared to the base (P=0.0005), the 10% extract (P<0.0001), silver (P=0.0005), and free (P<0.0001) groups), epithelization (compared to base (P=0.0006), the 10% extract (P=0.0008), silver (P=0.0007), and free (P=0.0006) groups), and proliferation of fibroblasts (compared to the 10% extract and free groups (P=0.0020 and P=0.0024, respectively) were seen in the 5% extract sample on day 10. Conclusion: Wound healing processes were observed in rats treated with a 5% A. floccosus extract cream. This finding highlights the potential for future studies on wound healing processes using this extract. © Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences.
Khan, A. ,
Sultan, A. ,
Mumtaz, A.S. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Khan, N. ,
Khan, T. Phytotaxa (11793163) 698(2)pp. 101-120
Interesting species with characteristic features of the section Aegacantha were collected from Pakistan, one new species and one new record are described and reported. Astragalus saifullahaicus sp. nov. is close to A. hostilis, but differs from the latter by longer internodes, broadly- triangular stipules, elliptic to obovate leaflets with cuneate base, obtuse apex, often mucronate, racemes 2-flowered and legumes oblong to elliptic, densely covered with appressed hairs and a slightly curved, 3-5.5 mm long beak. Taxonomic descriptions, distribution map, anatomy, palynology, seed micromorphology and IUCN threat category of newly described species are presented. Astragalus nigrocalyx is reported as a new record for flora of Pakistan. © 2025 Magnolia Press.
Avazzadeh, A. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Harpke, D. ,
Blattner, F.R. Plant Biosystems (17245575)
Astragalus, the largest genus of flowering plants, exhibits a remarkable center of diversity within the Irano-Turanian floristic region. This study describes Astragalus dalahuensis, a new species from section Poterion, discovered in the Dalahu region of western Iran. While morphologically resembling A. bruguieri and A. russellii, A. dalahuensis is distinguished by its large calyx, stipules with a clearly visible midvein, and smaller fruits. Morphological analyses highlight these unique characteristics, and molecular phylogenetic analyses using ITS and matK sequences confirm its placement with other species grouped within section Poterion. These data, however, cast doubts on monophyly of this section, as our data make polyphyly of section Poterion likely. Endemic to the Zagros oak forests, A. dalahuensis faces significant threats from agricultural expansion and habitat degradation and should be categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) under IUCN criteria. © 2025 Societá Botanica Italiana.
Phytotaxa (11793163) 689(2)pp. 253-261
Astragalus phanothrix has long been a taxonomically controversial species due to conflicting synonymizations and section placements. Originally described under sect. Onobrychium by Bornmüller in 1915, it was later transferred to sect. Hypoglottidei and synonymized with A. saganlugensis. Recent treatments synonymized it with A. cancellatus within sect. Onobrychoidei, highlighting persistent taxonomic ambiguities arising from overlapping morphological characters and the lack of integrative analyses. This study reassessed the taxonomic status of A. phanothrix using morphological examinations and molecular phylogenetic analyses of ITS and matK sequences. Morphological comparisons revealed key diagnostic characters that distinguish A. phanothrix from its putative synonyms. Astragalus phanothrix differs from A. saganlugensis by its mixed black and white hairs on the calyx (compared to erect stems with sparser indumentum), and smaller ovate legumes (compared to larger, elliptic legumes). From A. cancellatus it is separated by the absence of bifurcate calyx hairs, its placement in sect. Hypoglottidei (versus sect. Onobrychoidei), and its predominantly white hairs on the peduncle (compared to mixed black and white hairs). Phylogenetic analyses placed A. phanothrix firmly within sect. Hypoglottidei, supporting its recognition as an independent species. These findings resolve the taxonomic doubts surrounding A. phanothrix, reestablishing it as a distinct species, and highlight the value of integrating morphological and molecular evidence to clarify complex taxonomic relationships in Astragalus. Copyright © 2025 Magnolia Press.
Ghaderi Dehkordi N. ,
Khaledi Darvishan A. ,
Zare, M.R. ,
Porto P. ,
Khan, A. ,
Sultan, A. ,
Mumtaz, A.S. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Khan, N. ,
Khan, T. Water (Switzerland) (20734441) (1)pp. 101-120
The study highlights the increasing significance of understanding sediment sources and their contributions within a watershed, particularly in relation to different land use types. As the demand for effective source apportionment grows, this research aims to quantify how various land uses—specifically rangeland, rainfed agriculture, irrigated agriculture, and orchards—contribute to sediment yield over time. To achieve this, the researchers employed geochemical tracers and 137Cs to assess sediment contributions in a small sub-basin located in western Iran. The methodology involved creating a working unit map by overlaying land use maps from 1967 and 2021 with a slope map of the region. A total of 75 and 31 soil samples were systematically collected across different land uses to ensure a representative analysis of 137Cs and geochemical methods, respectively. The study utilized specific models to calculate the average contributions of each land use type. For non-agricultural lands, a diffusion and migration model was applied, while agricultural lands were analyzed using a mass balance type II model. The FingerPro program in R software 4.2.2 facilitated the selection of suitable tracers and allowed for the determination of sediment source contributions through a multivariate mixed model algorithm. The findings revealed significant changes in sediment yield contributions over the past 60 years. In 2021, rainfed agriculture accounted for 72.26% of sediment yield, down from 85.49% six decades earlier. Conversely, irrigated agriculture showed an increase from 1.80% to 15.06%. Rangeland and orchard contributions remained relatively stable but low, at approximately 8% and 4%, respectively. The total erosion rate for the sub-basin was estimated at 526.87 t y−1, with rainfed agriculture being responsible for the majority at 450.43 t y−1. © 2024 by the authors.
Iranian Journal Of Botany (1029788X) 30(2)pp. 109-126
The Hashtad Mountain, with an elevation of approximately 3770 m.a.s.l., is one of the highest peaks of the Zagros Mountains in the west of Isfahan province. The objective of the present work was to study the flora of this mountain across different altitudinal ranges. The results showed that Hashtad Mountain has a rich flora with a high plant diversity. A total of 212 taxa belonging to 39 families and 135 genera were identified. Asteraceae, represented by 27 species, was the largest family, followed by Fabaceae and Lamiaceae with 26 and 20 species, respectively. Astragalus, with 21 species, was identified as the largest genus. The region was dominated by hemicryptophytes (59%) and chamaephytes (13.7%) in terms of life form. In terms of geographical distribution, 65.5% of the identified species belong to the Irano-Turanian region. 63 species (29.7%) were endemic to Iran, with 21 species (9.9%) specifically endemic to the Zagros, highlighting the area's rich biodiversity. However, mining, road construction, and overgrazing are significant threats to the biodiversity of this area. Protection measures, including defining protected areas and regulating human activities, are necessary to conserve the biodiversity of Hashtad Mountain. © 2024, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands of Iran. All rights reserved.
Taxonomy and Biosystematics (23222190) 15(57)pp. 107-124
The study area, Mount Soffeh in Isfahan, with an elevation range of 1700 to 2250 m, is situated at the southernmost tip of Isfahan city, making it one of the most significant mountains in Isfahan. This research aimed to discover the botanical diversity and floristic composition of this mountain. Accordingly, plant specimens were collected from various regions of Mount Soffeh during the growing season, from March 2021 to December 2023. According to this study, a total of 258 species were identified, belonging to 189 genera and 46 families. The largest identified families in the area, in order, include: Asteraceae with 57 species, Poaceae with 24 species, Brassicaceae with 18 species, Amaranthaceae with 15 species, Fabaceae with 15 species, Lamiaceae with 15 species, Boraginaceae with 13 species, Apiaceae with 11 species, and Caryophyllaceae with 8 species. The flora comprises 40 dicotyledon families, 4 monocotyledon families, one gymnosperm family, and one pteridophyte family. The life forms, according to the Raunkiaer system, include 37.2% Therophytes, 35.27% Hemicryptophytes, 16.27% Chamaephytes, 5.03% Phanerophytes, 5.41% Cryptophytes (Geophytes and Helophytes), and 0.77% Parasites. Furthermore, in terms of geographical distribution, 45.34% of the plants in this area are related to the Irano-Turanian area, with the rest belonging to two or more geographical points. Forty-four species are also endemic or sub-endemic to Iran. Our research represents a significant leap in understanding the botanical diversity of Mount Soffeh. While historical records documented approximately 100 species on Mount Soffeh until 2021, our study exposes a notable increase, with over 250 species identified. Particularly significant is the discovery of about 190 taxa reported for the first time on Mount Soffeh, emphasizing the importance of ongoing botanical exploration in the region. Additionally, we report the first documentation of Tanacetum stapfianum (Rech.f.) Podlech in Isfahan province and specifically on Mount Soffeh, expanding our knowledge of the regional flora. Despite the absence of grazing, Mount Soffeh faces threats from tourism, climbing, and infrastructure development such as roads and cable cars, endangering its delicate ecosystem and species diversity. Conservation measures are essential for the protection of Mount Soffeh's botanical richness for the future. © The Author(s).
Faraji M. ,
Yalameha, S. ,
Hosseine M. ,
Bafekry A. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Abbasi, S. ,
Mahmoodi, M. ,
Akhavan, A. ,
Blattner, F.R. Advanced Theory and Simulations (25130390) (10)pp. 101-107
In this study, first-principles calculations are used to systematically study the structural, mechanical, and optical properties of the honeycomb AuTe monolayer, as well as the influence of layered structures on their stability and electronic properties. Additionally, the effect of alkali metal atoms decorating AuTe-X (X = Li, Na, K) and related structural, electronic, optical, and topological insulator properties, along with the biaxial strain on the lithium-decorated AuTe-Li monolayer are investigated. The AuTe monolayer shows metallic characteristics, and when alkali metal atoms are decorated onto it, the resulting structures remain dynamically stable. Notably, the introduction of Li, Na, and K atoms induces bandgap opening in the decorated Li and Na monolayers near the Fermi level, causing metal-to-narrow bandgap semiconductor and Dirac semi-metal transitions. Conversely, the metallic nature of the decorated AuTe-K monolayer is retained. The emergence of a bandgap near the Fermi level, caused by alkali metal decoration, triggers a topological phase transition in AuTe-Li, AuTe-Na, and AuTe-K monolayers. Optical analyses reveal that AuTe-K decorated structure enhances light absorption in the visible spectrum. Consequently, the findings provide insights into the decoration of these two-dimensional material monolayers, potentially advancing research and motivating the production of such monolayers for current nanodevice applications. © 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.
Vegetation Classification and Survey (26830671) 5pp. 329-346
Questions: The mountains of Fereydunshahr County are one of the centers of plant endemism within the Zagros, however, its flora and vegetation remain relatively understudied. In this study we undertook research on the plant species diversity of the subalpine and alpine zones of this area, their life forms, chorology, and vegetation types. Study area: Mountains of Fereydunshahr County, Central Zagros, West Iran. Methods: Plant specimens were collected during the growing seasons of 2018 to 2020. A complete species list was prepared including their life forms, chorotypes, elevation range, and major vegetation types. Results: A total of 308 vascular plant species have been identified belonging to 185 genera and 47 families. The largest plant families recorded during the study are Asteraceae with 44 species, Fabaceae 32, Brassicaceae 29, and Lamiaceae 27. At genus level Astragalus with 23 species is the richest. Hemicryptophyte with 162 (53%) species is the major life form. Most of the species are Irano-Turanian elements (52%). A total of 57 species (19%) are endemic to Iran and 23 species (7%) are endemic to Zagros. Most species belong to the montane-subalpine zone (33%), followed by subalpine (20%), montane (15%), lowland-montane (10%), alpine (9%), and lowland-subalpine (5%). In the alpine zone a high proportion of the species are endemic, while the montane zone has a very low proportion of endemics. From the identified species, 24% belong to subalpine and alpine thorn-cushion grasslands, 19% to montane steppe shrublands, 5% to subalpine tall-umbelliferous vegetation types, 5% to wetlands, and 5% to chasmophyte vegetation. Conclusions: The area has a rich flora, but at the same time is under high pressure from anthropogenic activities, especially a very high level of overgrazing. The region is not a protected area, therefore, establishment of a protected area and efficient conservation planning for the region is highly recommended. Copyright Mohsen Yaselyani et al.
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Brassac, J. ,
Blattner, F.R. Biology (20797737) 12(1)
The Astragalus subgenus Hypoglottis Bunge, which consists of several sections, is one of the taxonomically most complicated groups in the genus. The Astragalus section Stereothrix Bunge belongs to this subgenus and is a significant element of the Irano-Turanian floristic region. A molecular phylogenetic analysis of this section and its closely related taxa using nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and external transcribed spacer (ETS) regions as well as plastid matK sequences were conducted. Parsimony analyses and Bayesian phylogenetic inference revealed that the section is not monophyletic in its current form, as some taxa belonging to closely related sections such as Hypoglottidei DC. and the Malacothrix Bunge group within the sect. Stereothrix render it paraphyletic. Moreover, species groups belonging to sect. Stereothrix are placed in different clades within the phylogenetic tree of subgenus Hypoglottis, which indicates polyphyly, i.e., multiple independent origins of taxa placed in the sect. Stereothrix. Molecular dating of the group estimated an age of 3.62 (1.73–5.62) My for this assemblage with the major diversification events happening during the last 2 My. Many species groups separated only within the last 0.5 to 1 My. Based on morphological and molecular data, we discuss the phylogenetic relationships of the groups and synonymy of species. In addition, the included taxa of sect. Hypoglottidei are not monophyletic and include species belonging to sects. Hololeuce, Koelziana, Malacothrix, Onobrychoideae, and Ornithodpodium group within the sect. Stereothrix taxa. We conclude that only an analysis including all groups and nearly all species of the sections within the Hypoglottis clade can finally result in an new evolutionary-based system for these taxa. © 2023 by the authors.
Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution (09259864) 70(7)pp. 1999-2008
The genus Astragalus L. with about 3000 species is the largest genus of flowering plants. It is also the largest genus in the flora of Iran with more than 850 taxa. Astragalus cyclophyllon Beck is an endemic taxon belonging to Astragalus sect. Incani DC. It occurs scattered in the steppe and semi-steppe areas of the western and central parts of Iran. This species is one of the most important forage taxa of Astragalus. According to IUCN criteria it has been classified as a vulnerable taxon in Iran, as it occurs in habitats intensely used by herders for their livestock. Here we evaluate the genetic diversity of the populations of this species in Iran to see whether genetic diversity is high or if reductions have already happened. For this purpose, sampling was done in all geographical areas with A. cyclophyllon populations in Iran. In total, 80 individuals representing 29 populations were studied using 33 quantitative and qualitative morphological characters and 10 inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers. ISSR revealed 240 bands which all were polymorphic. Neighbor-joining cluster analysis divided the individuals in four groups, Principal Coordinate Analysis and Bayesian population assignment analysis in Structure resulted in three genetic units. Morphological variation showed no correlation with the molecular data. The mean of Gst and Nm indices are 0.516 and 0.468, respectively, which indicate a very high genetic differentiation and low gene flow between the studied populations. According to these results, we conclude that genetic diversity is high in this species and that, therefore, the major threat for A. cyclophyllon is currently not related to inbreeding depression in populations, but might be due to livestock grazing that could change the population demographic structure by reducing regular establishment of new offspring. © 2023, The Author(s).
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Noroozi, J. ,
Blattner, F.R. Plant Biosystems (17245575) 156(5)pp. 1260-1268
A new section of Astragalus from Mt. Alvand, W Iran, was recognized namely Astragalus sect. Elvendia Bagheri & Maassoumi, sect. nov., which is described here based on A. leucargyreus Bornm. A full description and diagnosis of the new section are given and taxonomic relationships of the section and its allied taxa are discussed. Molecular phylogenetic data obtained from the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region as well as plastid ycf1 and matK genes strongly support that the species of the new section is separated from sections Hymenostegis and Adiaspastus, where A. leucargyreus was placed before, and forms a distinct clade. In addition, we discuss the floristic, endemism, and conservation status of the Mt. Alvand region (type locality of the new section). Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/11263504.2022.2036846. © 2022 Societá Botanica Italiana.
Bagheri, A. ,
Akhavan roofigar, A. ,
Nemati, Z. ,
Blattner, F.R. Plants (22237747) 11(3)
Astragalus section Hymenostegis is one of the important characteristic elements of thorn-cushion formations in the Irano-Turanian floristic region. In this paper, we examined the chromosome number of 17 species (15 new reports) and provide estimates of genome size for 62 individuals belonging to 38 taxa of A. sect. Hymenostegis, some species outside this section, plus two Oxytropis species. Based on chromosome counts 11 species were found to be diploid (2n = 16), four species tetraploid (2n = 32) and two taxa hexaploid (2n = 48). From genome size measurements on silica-gel dried material, three ploidy levels (2x, 4x and 6x) were inferred, with a majority of species being diploid. The 2C values reach from 2.07 pg in diploid Astragalus zohrabi to 7.16 pg in hexaploid A. rubrostriatus. We found indications that species might occur with different cytotypes. A phylogenetic framework using nrDNA ITS sequences was constructed to understand the evolution of ploidy changes and genome sizes. It showed that genome size values among the studied taxa differ only slightly within ploidy levels and are nearly constant within most species and groups of closely related taxa within the genus Astragalus. The results of this study show that there is a rather strong correlation between genome sizes and chromosome numbers in sect. Hymenostegis. The resolution of the ITS-based phylogenetic tree is too low to infer evolutionary or environmental correlations of genome size differences. Polyploidization seems to contribute to the high species number in Astrag-alus, however, in sect. Hymenostegis it is not the main driver of speciation. © 2022 by the authors. Li-censee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences (26334682) 2022
Background and Objectives. A wound is one of the high-prevalence disorders that affect people's lives physically, mentally, and financially. This study examined the Astragalus microcephalus Willd. wound healing process in in vivo and in vitro conditions by focusing on the phytoestrogen activity of this extract. Methods. The methanolic root extract was prepared by maceration, and flavonoids were evaluated by LC/MS. In silico examination was performed based on the LC/MS results, and the binding affinity of these compounds to estrogen receptors (ERs) α and β was evaluated. Wound healing evaluation in both in vitro (NHDF cell line, by 500 μg/ml concentration of the extract, 24 h) and in vivo (Wistar rat, topical daily treated with 1.5% of the extract ointment, 21 days) conditions in comparison to control groups was conducted. Rats' control groups included silver sulfadiazine, Vaseline, and the nontreated groups. Results. Eleven flavonoids were detected using LC/MS. The in silico study showed that formononetin, kaempferol-based structures, quercetin-3-O-neohesperidoside, and calycosin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside had a high affinity (<-6.3) to ERs α and β. Wound closing measurement showed significant improvement in the group treated with the extract in both in vitro and in vivo assays compared to the control groups. Histopathological results confirmed these findings; inflammation factors decreased, and fibroblast proliferation, fibrosis, and epithelization increased, especially in the extract group. Conclusion. This study shows that Astragalus microcephalus has wound healing activity in vitro and in vivo with low toxicity due to the presence of flavonoids, especially isoflavonoids, which show a high affinity to bind to ERs α and β in the skin tissue. © 2022 Fatemeh Akbari et al.
Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences (26334682) 2022
Estrogens are a group of sex hormones which have receptors on the skin and lead to increased cells and wound healing. Normally isoflavonoids are present in Astragalus floccosus Boiss. (Leguminosae). Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the presence of isoflavonoids in A. floccosus' rich fraction of flavonoid and evaluate its wound healing effect accordingly. Flavonoids were evaluated by LCMS. Scratch was conducted and the medium culture was treated with the Astragalus' rich fraction of flavonoid (RFF) and was compared with nontreated culture during 48 hours. In addition, in vivo full-thickness wound healing evaluation was performed on rats. The rats were put into four groups and treated on a daily basis for 21 days with a cream containing 1.5% of the RFF (group 1), silver sulfadiazine (group 2), and Vaseline (group 3) separately. The nontreated group (group 4) was created for a better comparison. During the examination, wound size was evaluated and histopathological examination was performed. Herbal analysis detected 11 flavonoids, including 2 isoflavonoids, Calycosin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside and Formononetin, in the RFF. In vitro scratch wound healing showed significant improvement with RFF treatment in comparison to nontreated medium. Furthermore, in vitro drug release of Astragalus ointment showed a stationary line during 24 h and 0.14 mg/ml of flavonoid penetrated the skin. In vivo wound size evaluation showed significant improvement in the group treated with the RFF in comparison to other groups. Histopathological results indicated that congestion, edema, inflammation, necrosis, and angiogenesis decreased during the examination and fibroblast proliferation fibrosis epithelization was increased especially in the RFF group in comparison to the silver sulfadiazine and free groups. In conclusion, A. floccosus showed that wound healing activity in both in vitro and in vivo analyses can be attributed to the presence of isoflavonoids with estrogen-like activity in this plant. © 2022 Fatemeh Akbari et al.
Sinjushin, A. ,
Ploshinskaya, M. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Mahmoodi, M. ,
Bagheri, A. Plants (22237747) 11(5)
The vast majority of highly valuable species of the Leguminosae in temperate latitudes belong to the Inverted Repeat-Lacking Clade (IRLC). Despite having a generally conserved monosym-metric floral morphology, members of this group are remarkable with a pronounced diversity of floral sizes, modes of staminal fusion, and pollination strategies. This paper examined androecia and floral nectaries (FNs) in selected genera of the IRLC. External morphology was investigated using stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. In some cases, the pattern of staminal fusion was additionally examined in transverse sections using light microscopy. Androecia of all selected genera fell into one of four types, viz., monadelphous, pseudomonadelphous, diadelphous or diadelphous reduced (with inner stamens converted into sterile staminodes). However, there was significant variation in the stamens’ mode of contact, as well as the shape and size of the fenestrae providing access to FNs. Some types seemed to arise independently in different genera, thus providing a high level of homoplasy. FNs were more conserved and comprised areas of secretory stomata in the abaxial part of the receptacle and/or hypanthium. Nectariferous stomata could be found in very miniaturized flowers (Medicago lupulina) and could even accompany monadelphy (Galega). This indicates that preferential self-pollination may nevertheless require visitation by insects. © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
Karbalaie, Z. ,
Balali, G. ,
Akhavan roofigar, A. ,
Bagheri, A. Taxonomy and Biosystematics (23222190) 13(2)pp. 1-14
Artemisia L. is the largest genus of the Anthemideae tribe and one of the largest genera in the family Asteraceae. Globally, the number of species of this genus has been more than 500 species. A number of 34 of these species have been reported in Iran, with 8 species in Isfahan province. The wide distribution of Artemisia species in Iran makes this genus one of the main elements of the Irano-Turanian region. In order to morphologically investigate the genus Artemisia, the quantitative and qualitative characters related to reproductive and vegetative structures of this plant were collected in 64 samples. The researchers obtained the cluster diagrams and principal component analysis (PCoA) for the morphological characters of the specimens by using GenAlEx 6.5 and NTsys 2.02 software. In the cluster diagram, the Seriphidium Besser ex Less. Dracunculus Besser Rydb. and Artemisia subgenera were placed in separate clusters and next to each other. The results of the present study showed that some traits such as gender and situation of flowers in the capitulum, indumentum of the stem and receptacle, the situation of petiole at the basal and middle leaves, trichrome on both sides of the leaf surface, and the shape of outer phyllaries and their indumentum had more taxonomic value. Finally, the paper presents an identification key for the Artemisia species in Isfahan province, Iran. © 2021 The Authors. Published by University of Isfahan.
Karbalaei, Z. ,
Akhavan roofigar, A. ,
Reza balali, G. ,
Bagheri, A. Rostaniha (24236608) 22(2)pp. 273-285
Artemisia is a polymorphic and widespread genus from the Asteraceae family. This genus includes more than 500 species out of which 37 species have been reported from Iran. Widely distributed in the desert area of Iran that makes this genus as one of the main elements of the Irano-Turanian region. In this study, eight species of Artemisia from different parts of Isfahan province were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM) techniques based on both qualitative and quantitative features of foliar epidermal cells. Type of epidermal cells varied from polygonal to irregular and elongated in shape with wavy to smooth in margins. This study, defined three different types of stomata: anemocytic, anisocytic, and paracytic on both the adaxial and the abaxial sides of Artemisia leaves species. Six different types of both glandular and non-glandular trichomes including capitate, peltate, aduncate, tectorial, conical type, and stinging hair types were observed in these species. © 2021 Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection. All rights reserved.
Phytotaxa (11793163) 527(1)pp. 75-82
Iris pseudomeda is described and illustrated as a new species of Iris section Oncocyclus from Kurdistan province in northwestern Iran. It occurs among subalpine flora of Zagros mountain range, on stony calcareous hillsides and the brink of grassland fields. A complete morphological description, conservation status, botanical illustrations, notes on habitat and distribution range are presented for the new species. Furthermore, taxonomic relationships of I. pseudomeda with other members of this rhizomatous bearded section, particularly I. meda, are also discussed. © 2021 Magnolia Press.
Phytotaxa (11793163) 474(3)pp. 283-292
As a result of recent botanical expeditions to the north of Iran, we describe here a new endemic Allium species from Gilan province named Allium gilanense. Molecular and morphological data indicate that it belongs to Allium sect. Codonoprasum. We provide a morphological description, comparing Allium gilanense with the closest relative taxa A. lenkoranicum and A. paniculatum, the preliminary karyotype of the new species, and molecular phylogenetic data derived from the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the chloroplast intergenic spacer trnH-psbA. The chromosome number of the new species is 2n = 16 with 0-3 B chromosomes. Copyright © 2020 Magnolia Press.
Iranian Journal Of Botany (1029788X) 26(2)pp. 100-110
Based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic data, here we describe Astragalus sect. Irania Maassoumi, Mahmoodi & Bagheri as a new section in the immense genus Astragalus. Description and diagnosis are given. Morphologically, the new section is closely related to sect. Stereothrix Bunge, which is widely, distributed in Elburz and Zagros Mountains ranges. The new section differs from sect. Stereothrix in characters of the inflorescence, color of petals and stipules. But in the molecular phylogenetic analysis, it is surprisingly placed among the thorny Astragalus species. Type of the new section is A. issatissensis Maassoumi, Mahmoodi, which is so far known only from the highest elevations of Shirkuh Mt. above 3800 m a.s.l in Yazd province. © 2020, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands of Iran. All rights reserved.
Bagheri, A. ,
Abbasi, S. ,
Mahmoodi, M. ,
Akhavan, A. ,
Blattner, F.R. Plant Ecology and Evolution (20323913) 153(1)pp. 101-107
Background and aims – Narrow endemics, characterized by small distribution areas and small effective population sizes are prone to extinction due to low genetic variation caused by genetic bottlenecks and drift together with the danger of habitat loss. Astragalus subrecognitus is an endemic species that only occurs in northwestern Iran in mountain steppe at higher elevations above the Qezel Ozan River in the province Zanjan. Methods – In this study, we investigated the genetic structure of the populations of A. subrecognitus using inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) as molecular markers. Key results – We detected two genetic groups, which do however not concur with the geographic origins east and west of the Qezel Ozan River. Extant gene flow between these populations is rather unlikely given their distance of c. 70 km and the lack of suitable habitats for this species in lower areas of the valley in between. Conclusions – From this we conclude that we see an older pattern of geographic isolation that was followed by an exchange of genotypes during a time when migration through the valley was possible. Still, admixture between both genetic clusters was found only in one individual, indicating that broadening of allelic diversity by hybridization between individuals belonging to different genetic clusters might be a slow process. Due to the small size of the population, sparse inhabited area, and also very slow or even lack of regeneration in some places we consider A. subrecognitus according to IUCN Red List criteria as ‘endangered’ species. © 2020 Ali Bagheri, Shabnam Abbasi, Mohammad Mahmoodi, Azadeh Akhavan Roofigar, Frank R. Blattner.
Taxon (00400262) 69(6)pp. 1259-1272
Froriepia is a ditypic genus in the subfamily Apioideae. Froriepia subpinnata occurs in Iran and the Caucasus, while F. gracillima is a species endemic to Turkey that is known only from the type specimen collected near the country's eastern border. Although many comprehensive phylogenetic studies of members of the family Apiaceae have been conducted, the phylogenetic position of Froriepia has remained unknown. When we examined this genus in detail, we suspected that the two species assigned to it may in fact belong to separate genera because of morphological differences between them. To understand the tribal classification of this genus and to reveal its infrageneric phylogenetic relationships, we examined its members morphologically and phylogenetically. We obtained phylogenetic relationships by Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and rps16 intron gene sequences. We also examined pollen ornamentation and seed surface sculpturing with scanning electron microscopy. We found that, while F. subpinnata is a member of the tribe Pyramidoptereae, F. gracillima is a member of the tribe Selineae, and this conclusion was supported by our analyses of both the ITS and rps16 intron sequences. When we evaluated all of our results together, we deduced that F. gracillima should be removed from Froriepia. Ultimately, in light of both differences in morphological characteristics and phylogenetic evidence, we describe a new genus, Yildirimlia. The taxonomical diagnosis, detailed description, and illustrations of the new genus are provided herein. © 2020 International Association for Plant Taxonomy
Bagheri, A. ,
Mahmoodi, M. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Blattner, F.R. Iranian Journal Of Botany (1029788X) 25(2)pp. 95-102
Astragalus kazempourii is described as a new species from Firuzkuh in Tehran province, Iran. Morphological data and phylogenetic analyses of the nrDNA internal (ITS) and external transcribed spacer (ETS) regions places this species within sect. Hypoglottidei as sister of Astragalus parvarensis. The new species differs morphologically from A. parvarensis by having a short stem densely covered with basifixed hairs, short peduncles and a long calyx. A distribution map of the new species is provided and the habitat condition of the taxon and close relatives, as well as the conservation status of A. kazempourii are discussed. The phylogenetic analyses conducted also support the recent transfer of Astragalus bojnurdensis from A. sect. Brachylobium to sect. Hypoglottidei, which was in accordance with the morphological characters of this species. © 2019, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands of Iran. All rights reserved.
Annales Botanici Fennici (00033847) 56(4-6)pp. 211-215
Iran, especially the northwestern part of the country, is the center of diversity of the genus Astragalus section Hymenostegis in the Old World. A new species A. blattneri Bagheri & Maassoumi of that section from East Azarbayjan Province in NW Iran is here described and illustrated based on morphology and nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and plastid ycf1 sequence data. It morphologically resembles A. chrysostachys and A. recognitus but differs from these species by DNA sequences and several morphological characters. © Finnish Zoological and Botanical Publishing Board 2019.
Bagheri, A. ,
Akhavan, A. ,
Abbasi, S. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rutten, T. ,
Blattner, F.R. Grana (00173134) 58(5)pp. 328-336
Astragalus is with nearly 3000 described species the largest genus of flowering plants. So far analyses of pollen characters have only been conducted for a few species of the groups within the genus. Here we analyse pollen grains of 22 species representative for Astragalus section Hymenostegis using scanning electron microscopy. We found the basic shape of the pollen grains to be oblate-spheroidal and apertures to be tricolpate as for other eudicots. The sculpturing pattern of the exine is micro-reticulate. Pollen grains show low morphological variation among different species of this section, but differences occur between sections of the genus. We conclude that the vast morphological differentiation that occurred during the rapid radiation of section Hymenostegis was not accompanied by comparable differentiation in pollen morphology. © 2019, © 2019 Collegium Palynologicum Scandinavicum.
Phytotaxa (11793163) 350(3)pp. 297-299
Astragalus Linnaeus (1753: 755) (Fabaceae), with about 240 sections and 3000 species, is the largest genus of flowering plants (Podlech & Zarre 2013). Sect. Hypoglottidei De Candolle (1825: 281) with 46 species is one of the taxonomically most problematic sections. The majority of these species grow in Turkey and Iran (Chamberlain & Matthews 1970; Podlech et al. 2010; Podlech & Zarre 2013). Astragalus saganlugensis Trautvetter (1858: 323) is common in both countries, but also in Armenia and Azerbaijan. Trautvetter (1858) described this species as a member of section Hypoglottidei, but did not designate type material for the species. Podlech and Sytin (1996) were the first to choose a lectotype for this species. © 2018 Magnolia Press.
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rahiminejad, M.R. ,
Brassac, J. ,
Blattner, F.R. Scientific Reports (20452322) 7(1)
The taxa of Astragalus section Hymenostegis are an important element of mountainous and steppe habitats in Southwest Asia. A phylogenetic hypothesis of sect. Hymenostegis has been obtained from nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and plastid ycf1 sequences of up to 303 individuals from 106 species, including all 89 taxa currently assigned to sect. Hymenostegis, 14 species of other Astragalus sections, and two species of Oxytropis and one Biserrula designated as outgroups. Bayesian phylogenetic inference and parsimony analyses reveal that three species from two other closely related sections group within sect. Hymenostegis, making the section paraphyletic. DNA sequence diversity is generally very low among Hymenostegis taxa, which is consistent with recent diversification of the section. We estimate that diversification in sect. Hymenostegis occurred in the middle to late Pleistocene, with many species arising only during the last one million years, when environmental conditions in the mountain regions of Southwest and Central Asia cycled repeatedly between dry and more humid conditions. © 2017 The Author(s).
Bagheri, A. ,
Ghahremaninejad, F. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rahiminejad, M.R. ,
Blattner, F.R. Novon (10553177) 25(3)pp. 266-281
As a result of our taxonomic studies of Astragalus L. sect. Hymenostegis Bunge, we recognize nine new species of this genus from Zanjan Province in northwestern Iran, namely: A. atrokurdicus Maassoumi, F. Ghahrem., Bagheri & Podlech, A. austrotaromensis Maassoumi, F. Ghahrem., Bagheri & Podlech, A. dejectus Maassoumi, F. Ghahrem. & Bagheri, A. mostafa-assadii Bagheri, Maassoumi, F. Ghahrem. & Podlech, A. paralurgiformis F. Ghahrem., Maassoumi & Bagheri, A. pluriflorus F. Ghahrem., Maassoumi, Bagheri & Podlech, A. pseudoparalurges F. Ghahrem., Maassoumi, Bagheri & Podlech, A. sohrevardianus Bagheri, Maassoumi & F. Ghahrem., and A. sublaguriformis Bagheri, Maassoumi & F. Ghahrem., which are described and illustrated here. The new species are also compared with the taxa that are morphologically most similar and presumed to be closely related.
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rahiminejad, M.R. ,
Blattner, F.R. PLoS ONE (19326203) 11(3)
As a result of a taxonomic and phylogenetic revision of Astragalus section Hymenostegis we identified a new species of Astragalus from northwestern Iran, namely A. remotispicatus spec. nov., which is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to A. karlheinzii in possessing a lax inflorescence. Phylogenetic inference of the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region support A. remotispicatus as a clearly distinct species within the lax-inflorescence group of this section. Also the placement of A. sciureus var. subsessilis was found to be wrong and this taxon should be treated as a synonym within A. kohrudicus.a. ©2016 Bagheri et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Erkul, S.K. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rahiminejad, M.R. Turkish Journal Of Botany (1300008X) 39(1)pp. 205-207
Astragalus rubrostriatus Bunge and Astragalus qoturensis Podlech, belonging to Astragalus sect. Hymenostegis Bunge, are recorded here for the first time from Turkey. In addition, Astragalus chrysostachys Boiss. is excluded from the list of Turkish species of Astragalus. © TÜBİTAK.
Sinjushin, A. ,
Bagheri, A. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rahiminejad, M.R. Plant Systematics and Evolution (16156110) 301(10)pp. 2387-2397
Most papilionoid legumes (Leguminosae) are characterized by zygomorphic flowers. Features of monosymmetry are inherent to all floral whorls. We compare flowers of two species of papilionoid legumes with anomalously radialized corollas. Except for vexilloid mode of all five petals, these flowers were remarkable with their free androecium and (in case of Clitoria ternatea) actinomorphic calyx. The symmetry of the gynoecium remains unaltered. These correlations point at a strong interrelation between perianth and androecium symmetry control, possibly governed by the same genes. A review on floral symmetry in related papilionoid genera indicates that staminal fusion is only possible in case of a discernible adaxial petal (flag). This rule has some exceptions which contribute to the idea of independent recurrent origin of monosymmetry in different leguminous clades. © 2015, Springer-Verlag Wien.
Phytotaxa (11793163) 178(1)pp. 38-42
As a result of a recent expedition to the north-west of Iran, we describe here a newly dicovered species, Astragalus makuensis, belonging to sect. Hymenostegis. The new species is described and illustrated with a line drawing, and compared with its most closely related species A. hymenocystis and A. pereshkhoranicus. The new species is endemic to the western Azarbayejan province of Iran. © 2014 Magnolia Press. All rights reserved.
Feddes Repertorium (1522239X) 124(1)pp. 46-49
A new species of the genus Astragalus, namely A. hakkianus Bagheri, Maassoumi & Rahimin. is described and illustrated from NW Iran. It is most closely related to A. peresh-khoranicus Maassoumi & F. Ghahrem. and A. chehreganii Zarre & Podlech. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.
Adansonia (12808571) 34(1)pp. 59-65
Astragalus dilutuloides Maassoumi, F. Ghahrem. & Bagheri, sp. nov. and Astragalus montis-queydari F. Ghahrem., Maassoumi & Bagheri, sp. nov. are described as new species. Morphological evidence (bifurcated trichome, acaulescence, free stipules, bibracteolate, non-inflated calyx in fruit) supports taxonomic placement of the new taxa in Astragalus L. sect. Incani DC. These are endemic to the Zanjan province of western Iran. Astragalus dilutuloides is close to A. dilutulus Maassoumi, but it differs with having longer habit, longer stipules, longer leaves, in leaves indumentum, longer peduncle, and color of bract and bracteoles hairs. Astragalus montis-queydari is close to A. xiphidiopsis Bornm., but it differs from the first new species with having longer stipules, fewer leaflets, shorter peduncle, and inflorescence with fewer flowers (4-10 vs 10-20). © Publications Scientifiques du Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris.
Bagheri, A. ,
Erkul, S.K. ,
Maassoumi, A.A. ,
Rahiminejad, M.R. ,
Blattner, F.R. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transaction A: Science (10286276) 33(4)pp. 309-315
This recent study documents the phenolic constituents of the Triticum L. species in Iran using thin layer chromatography. Species studied are related to 55 wild and cultivated accessions of four diploid and four tetraploid species, namely Triticum boeoticum subsp. boeoticum Boiss., T. boeoticum subsp. Thaoudar Reut. ex Boiss., T. monococcum L., T. urartu Tum. ex Gand., T. turgidum L., T. dicoccoides (Korn. Ex Ascher. et Graebn.) Thell., T. dicoccum (Schrank.) Schubl. and T. durum Desf. collected from natural habitats and analyzed for their flavonoid compounds. The current study found that of a total of 20 flavonoid compounds, most of the derivatives were flavones, chalcones, and the others were mainly pseudobaptisin, sciadopitysin, baptigenin and fustin-3-O-glucoside. The basis of variation in these compounds was shown to be usable as an appropriate marker for chemotaxonomic studies. © Shiraz University.
